While the USA is the number one study abroad destination for international students, it’s also one of the most expensive options. International students who seek high-quality international education that is based on best practices and research-based pedagogy, choose the USA as their first destination. However, an exceptional and world-leading education system costs more than usual. That’s why most international students look for the cheapest states to study and live in the USA. Therefore, they can get an American education quality at the lowest possible cost.
Since you’re reading our article, you must be thrilled to find out what are the cheapest places to study and live in the USA on a limited budget. Luckily, out of the fifty states, 5 states are considered very affordable for international students. Continue reading to know more about these US states and what are the best universities and cities for students in each one of them.
How much does it cost to study in the USA for international students?
Before checking the cheapest states to study and live in the USA, we should be aware of the average study cost in the USA. Therefore, we can use it as a reference for comparison.
Generally, international students spend an average of US$50,000 per year on studying and living, and other related costs. However, the total cost depends on the state and the chosen university.
The average tuition fees to study an undergraduate degree for international students in the USA is around $26,000.for public universities. And an average of $36,000 for private American universities. Whereas, the average tuition fees to study a postgraduate degree for international students in the USA is between US$15,000 – US$50,000.
Community colleges in the USA are the most affordable option for overseas students, as tuition fees range from $3000-$15,000 per year.
Check: Study MBA in the USA at Half Tuition Fees !
What is the cost of living for international students in the USA?
The cost of living in the USA for international students varies by state, city, region, and other factors. In general, the average cost of living for students in the USA is around US$12,000 per year or around US$1,000 per month. This includes accommodation costs, food, transportation, textbooks, clothing, and entertainment expenses.
Cheapest states to live and study in usa for international students
There are around 50 states in the USA, and we will name the most affordable five states to study and live for international students.
5. Texas State
Texas state is the second largest state in the US after Alaska (by area) and after California (by population) with more than 29.1 million residents in 2020. According to a recent article, Texas is the fifth cheapest state in the USA for international students. The average spending of 82,184 international students in Texas is approximately $23,119 per year.
Texas has 40 colleges and universities, and it’s one of the most welcoming states for international students. So if you are considering studying in Texas, you will find a wide range of US colleges, technical schools, and universities to choose from in a variety of fields. Also, Texas has a strong position in the technology, biomedical sciences, and aerospace sectors.
Top US Universities and Colleges in Texas state:
- The University of Texas at Austin (ranked 49th in the world).
- Texas A&M University (159th).
- William Marsh Rice University
- The University of Houston (301-350).
- The University of Texas at Dallas (201-250).
Best US Cities for international Students to live in Texas:
- Midland.
- Austin.
- Houston.
- Richardson.
Read: Ultimate guide to cost of studying in USA for international students
4. Mississippi State
In the fourth position on our list of the cheapest states to study and live in the USA for international students, is Mississippi state. Which is the 32nd largest and 35th-most populous of the 50 U.S. states.
Mississippi offers an excellent quality of life and it is known as the “Hospitality State” that has everything you need to start your new educational journey. Also, It welcomes international students from all over the world.
In addition, Mississippi’s cost of living for international students is significantly lower than the national average by 15%.
Currently, there are around 3,450 international students enrolled in Mississippi institutions. They spend an average of $22,106 per year.
In addition, the state has more than twenty public and private universities.
Top US Universities and Colleges in Mississippi state:
- Mississippi College.
- Mississippi State University.
- The University of Mississippi.
- The University of Southern Mississippi.
- Alcorn State University.
Best US Cities for international Students in Mississippi:
- Cleveland.
- Hattiesburg.
- Columbus.
- Clinton.
- Jackson.
Check: Universities admissions in the USA without IELTS or TOEFL
3. North Dakota State
With a population of around 680,000, North Dakota is the nineteenth largest state and the fourth-least populous. It is located in the upper Midwest and bordered by the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the north.
So a recent study at Cambridge University found that North Dakota was the most friendly state in the US. Also, It has all you need for a vibrant and inspirational student experience.
North Dakota has eleven public universities and colleges, in addition to a few small private and tribal colleges. There are around 2,571 international students that chose North Dakota for its strong university system. Also, Students spend around $21,198 on tuition and $13,178 on accommodation, food, and other expenditures.
Top US Universities and Colleges in North Dakota state:
- North Dakota State University.
- The University of Jamestown.
- Valley City State University.
- Dickinson State University.
- Minot State University.
Best US Cities for Students to live in North Dakota:
- Minot.
- Fargo.
- Grand Forks.
- Dickinson.
- Jamestown.
- Bismarck.
Read: Ultimate Guide to Study at The University Of South Florida USF
2. South Dakota
In the second position on our list of the cheapest US states is South Dakota. Located in the upper Midwest, it’s considered the seventeenth-largest state by area, but the 5th least populous.
This place is full of adventures and gives you the space to grow between classes and other activities. In addition, South Dakota State has everything you need for rich and vibrant student life.
Universities in South Dakota offer world-class education and are very affordable for international students, In addition, this US state has a high standard of living at very low living costs. So students can receive a fulfilling experience at the lowest price possible.
South Dakota has a mix of medium-sized American institutions and smaller private colleges, especially in Rapid City and the state’s largest city, Sioux Falls.
It has more than 2,000 international students. They spend an average of US$19,132 per year on their education. However, the average cost of living is around US$13,000 per year.
Mining is a prominent business in South Dakota, so it makes it the perfect place for international students to study engineering and applied sciences.
Top US Universities and Colleges in South Dakota state:
- The University of South Dakota.
- South Dakota State University.
- Augustana University.
- Dakota Wesleyan University.
- University of Sioux Falls.
Best US Cities for International Students in South Dakota:
- Yankton.
- Madison.
- Spearfish.
- Sioux Falls.
- Aberdeen.
Check: 10 best In demand degrees with guaranteed Jobs in USA
1. Wyoming
The cheapest state to study and live in the USA for international students is Wyoming or the ‘Equality State’ as they call it. It is the 10th largest state in the USA by area, but the least populous.
Wyoming is one of the best destinations for international students. The cost of living in this state is 3.57% more cheaper than the US city average. In addition, transportation costs are the lowest. However, healthcare is more expensive than the nation’s average.
If you are interested in availing of high-quality education in a dynamic environment, so Wyoming is a great place to choose. Colleges and universities in Wyoming encourage students to participate in various campus activities and multicultural club activities.
There are around 1,157 international students. Where they spend roughly $17,663 per year on education and accommodation and other expenses. This is less than half of what they would pay in most states in the United States.
Wyoming has 11 educational institutions, 8 of which are public and 3 of which are private. the most famous of which are:
- University of Wyoming
- Casper College
- Central Wyoming College
- Wyotech-Laramie
- Eastern Wyoming College
Read: Guide to transferring universities or college to university in the US
Summary of the cheapest US states to study
| The state | Number of International Students | The total study cost |
|
1,157 | $10,663 |
|
1,981 | $19,132 |
|
2,571 | $21,198 |
|
3,533 | $22,106 |
|
82,184 | $23,119 |
Those were the cheapest states to study and live in the USA for international students. So if you are on a limited budget, you will definitely find what you are looking for in our previous list.
Golden Gate Study Abroad Agency can definitely help you with the process of searching and planning for your study in the USA. We can advise you on the best options based on your academic and financial background. We invite you to submit your request to get a free consultation by clicking the button below. Later on, within 24 hours one of our academic consultants will contact you!
